Lagos State Govt Alerts Residents Of Poisonous Plantain Chips In Circulation

The Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency (LASCOPA) has cautioned members of the public to be mindful when consuming fried plantains popularly known as “Plantain Chips”.

It cautioned consumers to be aware of unwholesome practices in the processing and frying of the plantain for sale.

A statement issued by the Agency on Tuesday, January 15, stated that the advice was necessary given the viral online picture posted by an eye witness showing a "plantain chips" seller allegedly adding Polythene known as "Rubber" into the hot vegetable oil used for frying the plantain. LASCOPA expressed deep concern about the health implications this may have on consumers.

The agency advised all consumers to exercise caution and be vigilant about where they purchase their plantain chips in order not to ignorantly expose themselves to any harmful substances or preventable food poisoning.

According to the release, the Agency is presently investigating this discovery and will take appropriate actions to protect consumers and hold accountable those responsible for the dangerous practice.

Meanwhile, members of the public have been urged to assist in calling the attention of appropriate government agencies including LASCOPA to all unfriendly and unlawful practices among sellers of consumable items that can put the health of consumers at risk.

LASCOPA is located at No 2B, Soji Adepegba Close off Allen Avenue Ikeja with Annex offices situated within Badagry Local Government Secretariat, Bariga LCDA, Ikorodu Local Government and Ikoyi-Obalende LCDA.

The Agency can also be contacted via email at [email protected] or [email protected] or through the following phone numbers: 08124993885, 09064323154, and 08092509777.